Syria: The UN reported that illegal excavations are taking place at important archaeological sites all over the country that are “extremely dangerous” and “lethal” to the country’s cultural heritage. (AP)

Yemen: Shiite rebels battled pro-government tribes and Sunni Islamists close to the capital overnight before a truce was restored. (AFP)

TECHNOLOGY AND COMMUNICATIONS

Communications: Turkish MPs adopted new Internet legislation that extends hefty Internet curbs in place under a controversial 2007 law. (AFP)